Since 2016, the European Union has allocated approximately 1.8 million euros to repurpose assets seized from criminal activities in Albania.
A conference titled “From Illegal Gains to Public Good: The Future of Confiscated Assets” took place in Tirana, bringing together government officials and representatives from international organizations.
Andre Rizzo, Head of the Political Section at the EU Delegation in Albania, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to reinvesting confiscated assets for the benefit of the public.
“The confiscation of assets gained through criminal activities goes beyond mere seizure. It involves reinvesting that wealth into society, rebuilding trust in the justice system, and preventing crime from being profitable. The EU has long championed this principle and has established regulations governing the management and reinvestment of confiscated assets to fund social programs, aid vulnerable communities, and foster a more equitable and inclusive society,” Rizzo stated.
Initiatives funded by repurposed assets range from art centers to weaving workshops, all aimed at supporting victims of crime and deterring youth from engaging in criminal activity.
Albanian Interior Minister, Ervin Hoxha, addressed the current status of asset confiscation, highlighting that effective crime-fighting hinges on seizing the assets or properties derived from criminal acts.
Minister Hoxha noted, “Our goal is to manage these assets responsibly, ensuring they are returned to public service.”
“This can be achieved through utilization by government entities, allocation for private use, or through auction sales, as stipulated by law,” he added.
The conference aimed to foster a dialogue between local and international authorities on the best practices for repurposing criminal assets for public benefit. (February 17)
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